Christmas capers at the Castle

5 December 2006

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and there will definitely be laughter aplenty as Historic Scotland brings Christmas to Edinburgh Castle. On Sunday 10 December, an air of magic and merriment will drift through this ancient fortress as music, comedy, storytelling and, of course Father Christmas all combine to capture the true spirit of a traditional Christmas.

Discover our magical Father Christmas in his Grotto within the beautiful Laich Hall, and prepare to be amazed later on as he performs special magic shows in the Great Hall, guaranteed to surprise and delight all the family. Also in the Great Hall, visitors can encounter some festive frolics from our comedy pirates, now where have they smuggled those Christmas presents?!

'Bah Humbug!'; not even Ebenezer Scrooge will be able to dampen spirits at the Christmas at the Castle event. Instead he will tell the tale of 'A Christmas Carol', introducing his audience to the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. And join Celtic band Laverock as they start 'rocking around the Christmas tree' to some seasonal songs, we are sure everyone will know all the words!

Nick Finnigan, Events Manager at Historic Scotland said:

'We hope visitors will enjoy getting into the festive spirit at the Castle this Sunday. We all know Father Christmas is magical, but have you ever seen him use his powers close up? It really is a traditional Christmas event with a twist, and families should prepare to be amazed.

And as the event draws to a close, take the opportunity to look out from the Castle over the city at all the colourful Christmas lights, the perfect ending to a festive-filled day.'

Christmas at Edinburgh Castle is on 10 December 2006 from 12.30pm – 3.30pm. For more information on this event please call 0131 668 8926.

Edinburgh Castle is also serving Christmas lunches throughout December. The price is £27.00 per person for three courses, and this includes entry to Edinburgh Castle. Booking is essential, please contact 0131 220 4833, or e-mail edinburghcastledigbytrout.co.uk

Notes for editors

Edinburgh Castle is open 7 days a week from 9.30am -5.00pm. Admission: Adult £10.30, Concession £8.50, Children £4.50.

A majestic landmark which dominates the capital city's skyline just as it has dominated Scotland's long and colourful history Edinburgh Castle is the best known and most visited of our historic buildings. Perched on an extinct volcano and offering stunning views, this instantly recognisable fortress is a powerful national symbol, and part of Edinburgh's World Heritage site.

Historic Scotland stages an extensive annual programme of events at its Properties in Care. For details, visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/events or call 0131 668 8926 for an events brochure.

The Castle is just one of 345 outstanding historic properties and sites in the care of Historic Scotland. These include some of the leading tourism attractions in the country, including Stirling, and Urquhart Castles, Fort George, Linlithgow Palace, the Border Abbeys, and Skara Brae.

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